NCC Links Sustainable Business Growth To Tech Disruptions

The Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) has said, as the world navigates the era of tech disruptions, it is crucial for businesses to embrace innovation and adapt to the changing landscape,

This is even as the commission has advised companies to be agile and willing to experiment with these emerging technologies, to gain a competitive advantage in their respective industries.

Executive vice chairman/CEO, NCC Prof. Umar Garba Danbatta, at the 2023 Information Communication Technology Conference (2023 ICTEL Expo) yesterday, in Lagos, averred that, technology has always played a significant role in shaping the world, adding that, in recent years, advancements have accelerated at an unprecedented rate.

“We find ourselves amid a digital revolution, where the boundaries between physical and virtual worlds are blurring. This revolution is driven by disruptive

technologies that have the power to reshape traditional industries and create new opportunities for growth and progress.

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“For instance, the 5th Industrial Revolution powered by 5G Networks is characterised by disruptive technologies which have attributes that are recognisably superior. Examples of such disruptive technologies include Artificial Intelligence (AI), Machine Learning (ML), Internet of Things (IoT), Blockchain Technology, Virtual Reality (VR), Augmented Reality (AR) and other emerging technologies which have demonstrated the potential of transforming industries and business models,” Danbatta revealed.

The CEO, therefore, advised companies to be adaptable and be open to experiment with these developing technologies in order to achieve a competitive advantage in their respective industries, while ensuring ethical and responsible use of technology to address any potential challenges it may bring.

He averred that NCC has contributed significantly to the technology disruptions happening in Nigeria, adding that, as the regulatory body responsible for overseeing the telecommunications industry, the NCC plays a crucial role in creating an enabling environment for innovation, investment, competition, growth, and development of the sector.

Through its Aspire 2024, a Strategic Management Plan (2020 –2024), Danbatta said the commission is expanding network coverage and promoting the deployment of broadband infrastructure, as an effort to bring reliable and affordable internet access to every corner of Nigeria.

As at May 2023, the number of telecom subscriptions was 227,179,946 with a Teledensity of 119 per cent and the telecom industry also contributed 14.13 per cent in Quarter 1, 2023 to the Gross Domestic Product (GDP).

The  commission has prioritise consumer protection and privacy, Danbatta stated, adding that, “our plan is not just about infrastructure; it also focuses on the needs and rights of consumers. We are dedicated to protecting consumer interests and ensuring quality of service. Innovation and Competition are central to our vision. Our strategic plan supports fair competition, market regulation, and measures to prevent anti-competitive practices, ensuring that the industry remains dynamic, responsive, and customer-centric.

“Spectrum Management is another critical aspect of our strategic vision plan. We are committed to supporting the transition to new spectrum bands, such as 5G, to unlock the transformative potential of these technologies and enable new services and applications.

“As at May 2023, broadband subscription was 92,561,842 while broadband penetration was 48.49 per cent. We are also committed to empowering all Nigerians with digital skills and access, thereby creating opportunities for socio-economic development and narrowing the digital divide. I assure the public that the commission’s door is open for collaboration and stakeholder engagement.”